Identifying key factors and strategies for reducing industrial CO_2 emissions from a non-Kyoto protocol member's (Taiwan) perspective

摘要

In this study we use Divisia index approach to identify key factors affecting CO_2 emission changes of industrial sectors in Taiwan. The changes of CO_2 emission are decomposed into emission coefficient, energy intensity, industrial structure and economic growth. Furthermore, comparisons with USA, Japan, Germany, the Netherlands and South Korea are made to have a better understanding of emission tendency in these countries and to help formulate our CO_2 reduction strategies for responding to the international calls for CO_2 cuts. The results show that economic growth and high energy intensity were two key factors for the rapid increase of industrial CO_2 emission in Taiwan, while adjustment of industrial structure was the main component for the decrease. Although economic development is important, Taiwan must keep pace with the international trends for CO_2 reduction. Among the most important strategies are continuous efforts to improve energy intensity, fuel mix toward lower carbon, setting targets for industrial CO_2 cuts, and advancing green technology through technology transfer. Also, the clean development mechanism (CDM) is expected to play an important role in the future.